In all, by releasing Robinson ($9 million cap figure), Abraham ($7.25 million) and Turner ($8.9 million), the Falcons saved $25.15 million toward the NFL's salary cap for 2013, which is $123 million.

"As a football coach it is never easy to cut any player, especially veteran players who have been valuable members of the organization," coach Mike Smith said in a statement. "The guys we released today have contributed to the success that we have had over the last five years, and we greatly appreciate their efforts."

Turner, 31, who averaged a career-low 3.6 yards per carry last season, was expected to be cut. He was key to the franchise's turnaround after signing in 2008, Smith's first season.

"I'm excited to begin a new chapter of my career and truly believe I have a lot left in the tank," Turner said in a Facebook post via NFL.com.

With Turner slowing, the Falcons expressed confidence in third-year back Jacquizz Rodgers handling a bigger role in the offense. They are expected to have interest in adding a veteran power back and could pursue Steven Jackson, who voided the last year of his contract with the St. Louis Rams and will hit the open market.

The release of Abraham was more of a surprise considering he was the only quality pass rusher on the roster. His age (34) and recent injury problems worked against him. During his seven seasons in Atlanta, he compiled 68½ sacks, toggling between left and right end.

The Falcons now must find a solid starter opposite Kroy Biermann. They could get that player with the No. 30 overall pick in April's draft, with LSU's Sam Montgomery, Texas' Alex Okafor and SMU’s Margus Hunt all in the mix.

Atlanta was No. 29 in the league in putting up 29 sacks last season, with Abraham producing 10 of them. The Falcons will look for a significant pass-rush boost, whether it's from an immediate impact rookie or a veteran free agent.

Robinson, 30, who was signed as a free agent in 2010, hadn't played to the level of his big contract. He had four interceptions over three seasons with the Falcons.

The Falcons have Asante Samuel at one starting corner and must decide whether they want to retain Brent Grimes, a 2010 Pro Bowl corner who is recovering from September's torn Achilles' tendon. Grimes, an unrestricted free agent, won't get the franchise tag from the Falcons like he did last season.

With Robinson’s $8 million salary off the books, they could apply the savings toward bringing back Grimes on a one-year deal.

As Turner, Abraham and Robinson move on, they could be looking at situational jobs on their next teams.